The 29-year-old goalkeeper was stretchered off in the first half of Chippa United’s league clash against Richards Bay on Tuesday. Nwabali appeared to be in significant pain after going down, and while the exact nature of the injury has yet to be confirmed, initial signs suggest he could face time on the sidelines.

Chippa United’s medical team is currently assessing the extent of the damage.

The injury comes at a critical time for the Super Eagles, who are set to face Rwanda and South Africa in crucial World Cup qualifiers next month. Nwabali has been a key figure in Nigeria’s recent campaigns, earning 21 caps and emerging as a reliable presence between the posts under coach Eric Chelle.

Nigeria is already grappling with a goalkeeping crisis. Maduka Okoye remains unavailable due to a two-month suspension for illegal betting activity, significantly narrowing the team’s options.

Nigeria sits fourth in Group C with seven points, six behind leaders South Africa. With two difficult matches ahead, the potential absence of Nwabali could prove costly in their bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Source: Punch